TENNIS: Larne's Nelson Boyle is in his fourth year in pursuit of the big double in Irish tennis. A 17-year-old when winning the under-18 Open, last night he began another campaign in search of the men's National Open title at the Templeogue club.

Although not among the seeds, Boyle was impressive when disposing of the challlenge of Italian Massimo Papini, 6-3, 6-0, in just under the hour.

Switzerland's Phillip Horyna is one of a number of prospects bidding for the title after an impressive career at US collegiate level. He opened with a 6-1, 6-0 win over local player Gary Flood. Top seed Dave McNamara of Australia goes into action this evening.

The Leinster women's chmpionship title is also on offer and former Irish Open champion Lucy Ahl of Britain is the strong favourite, but with the excellent Irish prospect Elsa O'Riain seeded to meet her on Saturday, she cannot be guaranteed an easy passage.